The short answer
Asheri Fort (Asherigad): what visitors should know first
For fit walkers and trekkers only. The route is a village approach and about an hour's trek to the col, then a narrow climb. Go early in the cool months, carry water, and consider a local guide.
History and context
The story behind Asheri Fort (Asherigad)
Tradition ascribes the fort to Bhojaraja of the Shilahara dynasty, about 800 years ago. Bimb Raja of Mahim took it from the Kolis, and the Gujarat Sultanate ruled it later. The Portuguese captain of Bassein, Antonio Moniz Barreto, took it in 1556, and it became a northern boundary of their territory. Chimaji Appa's Marathas captured it in 1737. The Portuguese retook it, but it fell permanently to the Marathas in February 1739. The British captured it in 1818.
Useful facts
Asheri Fort (Asherigad) facts at a glance
- Location
- Near Mendhavan and Khodkona, off NH 48
- Height
- About 510 m
- Trek
- About an hour to the col, then a narrow climb
- Remains
- Rock-cut lotus pond, cave, few structures
- Access
- Open to the public; village help
Why it matters
Why Asheri Fort (Asherigad) is worth your time
Asheri was once the northern edge of Portuguese territory in the area and the seat of 38 villages and six parishes. It was reportedly built about 800 years ago and changed hands between local kings, the Gujarat Sultanate, the Portuguese, the Marathas and the British.
Today it is valued by trekkers for the climb and the sense of isolation just off a busy highway. Local villagers have helped keep the fort alive, and visiting respectfully supports that effort. The highway runs close by, but the fort feels removed from it, and the climb shows how defensible the ridge was. Treat it as a proper trek rather than a casual stop, with a start before sunrise if the season is warm.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Rock-cut pond
A pond full of lotus flowers cut into the rock.
- 02
Hill views
Wide views over the highway and surrounding hills.
- 03
Village stays
Villagers offer cave stays and food.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Reach the base village of Khodkona, using a rickshaw from the highway stops at Mastan Naka or Charoti Naka. The trail starts from a hillock north of the village and takes about an hour to reach the col below the fort hill. From there a narrow path climbs the eastern side to the entrance. Start at dawn, carry water, and wear shoes with grip.
Few structures survive on top. The main sights are a rock-cut pond full of lotus flowers and a cave where a sadhu lives. Villagers can arrange a night in the cave with food for those who want to camp, but ask before you go. The views over the surrounding hills and the highway below are the reward.
Mind the weather: the monsoon makes the paths slippery, and the summer sun makes the climb hard.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Start at dawn
- Carry all your water
- Wear grip shoes
- Ask villagers before staying overnight
- Avoid the monsoon
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Near Mendhavan and Khodkona, off the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway (NH 48), Palghar district
- Time needed
- Half a day
- Best time
- November to February, early morning
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- The trek is steep and exposed, with a narrow final climb and little shade or seating. It is not recommended for older travellers or anyone with knee or breathing problems.
- Tickets and access
- Open to the public without a published ticket system. Local villagers help with restoration and offer cave stays and food on request; arrange these locally and confirm any charges.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Asheri Fort (Asherigad)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The trek is steep and exposed, with a narrow final climb and little shade or seating. It is not recommended for older travellers or anyone with knee or breathing problems.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How long is the Asheri trek?
About an hour to the col below the fort, then a narrow climb to the entrance.
Can I stay overnight?
Villagers offer cave stays with food; arrange this locally.
Is it suitable for senior citizens?
No, the trek is demanding. Choose Shirgaon Fort instead.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
